For Kids and Educators
Did you know that more than 20,000 children in Colorado don't have a toothbrush to call their own? But you can help change that. We've put a variety of information on these pages that can help you understand the need for proper dental care among children as well as ways you and your classroom can help those less fortunate.
On this site, you will:
- Learn tips for good oral health,
- Read staggering statistics about kids and dental care,
- Read about the state of children's dental health,
- Find links to a whole range of interesting and informative web sites, and
- Learn how you can win a visit to your school from the Tooth Fairy!
Tips for Good Oral Health
- Brush with a fluoride toothpaste using a soft bristle brush.
- Visit your dentist regularly for routine cleanings and examinations.
- Eat a well-balanced diet including fruits and vegetables, cereals, dairy products and meat.
- Floss daily to reach between the teeth and under the gum line.
Staggering Stats Concerning Children’s Oral Health
In the United States, 25 percent of children and adolescents--typically those from families with low incomes and from minority groups--experience 80 percent of all dental decay occurring in permanent teeth.
Early childhood tooth decay dramatically increases a child's risk of future dental decay.
Tooth decay is the most common chronic disease of childhood. It is believed that nearly 300,000 children in Colorado need restorative care because of an inability to access dental services coupled with inadequate levels of fluoride in community water supplies.
Articles concerning the state of children's dental health (PDF Downloads)
Children's Oral Health Fact Sheet
Children's Dental Health in Colorado
Ensuring Shining Smiles for Colorado Kids
Innovative Solutions to the Dental Access Issue
Understanding the Dental Delivery System and How it Differs from the Medical System
Toothbrushes for Tots
As you learned earlier on this website, more than 20,000 kids in Colorado don't have a toothbrush to call their own. But you can help change that.
See current press release (Word document).
Or, call 303.733.3710 x17 for more information on starting a “Toothbrushes for Tots” Product Drive at your school. KIND can even arrange a special visit from the Tooth Fairy to your school when she accepts the donations at the end of the event.